Where to Carb-Load Before the Athens Marathon

Run, run as fast as you can… but first get your carb fix. Before you take off down the streets in the Athens Marathon this Sunday, be sure you fuel up with delicious Athens eats! Here are 5 places to carb load, with zero guilt.

Restaurant SalaamDevour wholesome dishes with Mediterranean flair at Salaam. Try a wrap sandwich, filled with traditional Mediterranean ingredients, or the signature hummus with warm pita bread. With options like Mediterranean Pasta with Chicken and Curried Couscous Salad, you’re going to have to come back for seconds after crossing the finish line!

Bagel Street DeliHave you ever had a bagelwich? Try one before the marathon to get your dose of carbs and protein! Bagel Street Deli offers over 20 varieties of bagels to stuff full of countless fillings. If you’re there for breakfast, the Chris Farley with banana, peanut butter and honey is the perfect way to start the day. If you’re a true carnivore, the Big-A-Bagel is for you, stuffed with salami, pepperoni and ham. For herbivores, try the many veggie and tofu bagels. If you’re unsure which combo to choose, check out the BSD Originals menu, which includes 10 sandwiches that have made quite the name for themselves in Athens!

Fusion NoodleGather all your running buddies for a pasta night at Fusion Noodle! Offering different styles of noodles, topped with a variety of tasty sauces, there’s something for every runner. If Asian-inspired noodles aren’t quite your speed, try the Pesto Farfalle or Penne alla Vodka. Regardless of what you choose, this is the place to be the night before the marathon!

Village BakeryNo shortage of homemade, carb-loaded options at the Village Bakery & Café on East State Street. From wood-fired pizzas to huge breakfast sandwiches, tacos and crusty fresh bread, this little café creates big flavors. Take a quiche to-go and heat up a slice before you’re off to the races, then refuel after the marathon at Village Bakery’s epic Sunday brunch!

Lui LuiNo better way to prep for 26.2 miles than with a classy dinner at Lui Lui, known for its scrumptious pasta plates. But don’t jump the gun: Before you order, also check out their brick oven pizzas. Celebrate the greatness that is Athens all weekend long by first enjoying a locally-sourced meal at Lui Lui, then lacing up your shoes for the marathon.

Where will you get your pre-race energy boost? We’ll see you at the start line!

Be sure to use #AthensOhio to share your Race Day photos—who knows, they may end up on our blog or social media pages!